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Reasons to Love This Recipe
- Delicious salmon packed with healthy fats and protein, making it perfect for meal prep!
- Cooked in the air fryer, this recipe comes together in less than 15 minutes, faster than the oven!
- Minimized cleanup with no splatter and less cooking vessel to worry about — it’s mess-free!
- The air fryer helps keep your home from smelling like fish, maintaining a pleasant cooking environment.
Ingredients
- Salmon: A one-pound fillet works great, but you can also use smaller 6 oz fillets. Choose wild-caught whenever possible.
- Oil: Avocado oil is excellent, though olive oil can be used if you prefer its flavor.
- Seasonings: Consider using salt, pepper, and dried rosemary as your go-to spices. Feel free to add turmeric and Kashmiri chili powder for extra zest.
- Lime or lemon juice: Essential for a bright, zesty flavor!
- Lemon slices for garnish and serving.
Instructions
Preparing the Salmon
- Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This step helps achieve a nice sear.
- In a small bowl, mix together the avocado oil, seasonings, and lime or lemon juice.
- Brush or rub the mixture evenly over the salmon fillets.
Cooking in the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Carefully place the salmon fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding—air flow is key for even cooking!
- Air fry the salmon for about 7 to 9 minutes for 1-inch thick fillets. For thicker pieces, increase the time to around 12 minutes.
- Check that the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F (63°C). The salmon should be flaky and opaque.
- Remove the salmon from the air fryer and let it rest for a couple of minutes.
- Serve with fresh lemon slices and your favorite sides.
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with flavors!
- Teriyaki Salmon: Omit turmeric and Kashmiri chili powder, basting with teriyaki sauce halfway through to enhance the flavor.
- Garlic Butter Salmon: Melt butter with minced garlic and fresh parsley. Baste salmon with this mixture for a rich taste!
- Honey Garlic: Combine honey, garlic, and red chili flakes to create a sweet and spicy marinade.
How to Prep Ahead
Raw: Season your salmon and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Cooked: Leftovers can be placed in an airtight container and stored for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, wait until they cool, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. When reheating, spray oil and microwave or air-fry at a lower temperature (300°F) for 4-5 minutes.
Suggested Side Dishes
This salmon pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, such as:
- Roasted air fryer broccoli
- Fluffy jeera rice with cumin
- A refreshing easy quinoa salad
- Flavorful Indian fried rice
Frequently Asked Questions
Should salmon be thawed before cooking in an air fryer?Yes, thawing salmon in the refrigerator overnight or under running water will help reduce cooking time.
Can you use an air fryer for frozen salmon?Absolutely! Just be sure to marinate it beforehand so seasonings adhere well.
How long should frozen salmon go in an air fryer?For frozen salmon, add around 3-4 minutes to usual cooking times—9-12 minutes for 1-inch fillets and 15-18 minutes for 2-inch fillets.
Do you need to flip salmon in an air fryer?No need to flip! Place it skin-side down and cook until done.
How do you warm cooked salmon without drying it out?Reheat in the air fryer at 300°F for 4-5 minutes after spraying with oil to keep it moist.
